OfficeClip customization framework is implemented in a way that all customization code remains separated from the OfficeClip code. This enables upgrades to the OfficeClip code without the concern of overwriting the customized part. All customization files reside in a separate directory (by default it is called custom). At runtime, the framework loads the customization index file, called custom.xml and stores the references to all the customized files.

Whenever a reference is made to the file that has been customized, the OfficeClip framework redirects it and uses the one which is present in custom directory.

Note: No OfficeClip files should be directly changed during customization. Doing so may result in unpredictable behaviour while upgrading OfficeClip to a newer version.

Currently all Level 1 customizations are applied manually by editing the xml and xsd files. These files can be edited using the notepad. However, it is advisable to make use of an xml editor. General customization has the following topics:

1. Setting the Custom Path - The custom path is set using the customXML key at the root Web.Config file. The value can be either set to an empty string (in which case the custom configuration feature is off) or set to a relative path from the OfficeClip home directory.
   
   
2. Creating the Custom Index - The custom index is an XML file which is created at the root of the custom directory and always has the name determined by the value of customXML key in the root web.config file (mentioned in Step 1). This file describes the mapping between OfficeClip file and the customized file that will alternatively be used at runtime.
   
   
3. Adding Custom Files - Custom files are added under the custom directory (see Step 1). Usually it is advisable to add these files with the same relative path as the corresponding file in the OfficeClip directory.
   
   
4. Restarting the Server - The ASP.Net process needs to be restarted for the customization to take effect. This can be done by running iisreset from the windows command prompt.